You’re not alone.

Every week, every day, I have the same conversation. It happens when I’m meeting with a client one-on-one to talk about their career. It goes like this, “You must think I’m crazy. I must be the only person you’ve ever talked to who’s having this issue.”

But this is the thing, every day, someone says this. They’re not the only person feeling the way they do.

Think about it this way. It’s very important to keep your job search a secret. Because you don’t talk about what’s on your mind, you don’t realize that other people are feeling the same way.

Here are some of the common concerns that people feel about looking for a job, every day:

Am I too old? Am I too young?

Do I have the right clothes or look?

Do I have enough education? Do I have too much education?

What will people think about the time I took off of work to care for my sick loved one or young child?

What if they knew that I was struggling with personal issues (such as a family member dying)?

Do I come across well in interviews?

Am I behind in my skills?

What if I don’t meet every requirement in a job description?

I want to do something different, but what would it be?

Can you identify with any of these scenarios? My guess is that you can, or you have another similar example.

And, guess what? You’re not alone. You and every other job seeker has something on your mind. There’s something you don’t like and are afraid you might be judged for.

It’s totally normal. There’s so much of job seeking that’s like going on a first date or giving a presentation. You’re vulnerable. Other people are going to judge you. And, their judgment of you will determine whether or not you’ll get the job.

I’m writing this week’s newsletter to say this: you’re not alone. If there is someone you can secretly and privately talk about your concerns, you might want to consider it. Just be discreet. You don’t want to jeopardize your current employment status.

And, if I can help, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me. I help my clients re-brand themselves every day and tackle many of the concerns listed above, in a safe, discreet, confidential environment.

But, whatever you do, remember that it’s not just you. Let go of your fears as much as you can and keep your focus on finding – and landing – your next job!

Also, be sure to subscribe to my Copeland Coaching Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Stitcher where I discuss career advice every Tuesday! If you’ve already heard the podcast and enjoy it, please consider leaving a review in Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. Thanks.